Table of Contents

GABA Deficiency: The Impact and How To Correct It

Takeaways

  • GABA deficiency can cause anxiety, insomnia, and mood issues
  • Diet, lifestyle, and genetics influence GABA levels
  • Natural methods like diet changes can boost GABA
  • Supplements and medications may help correct deficiency
  • Regular exercise supports healthy GABA production
  • Monitoring and adjusting strategies improves long-term management

Understanding GABA

GABA, also known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a chemical messenger in the brain that helps to calm nerve activity.[1] It promotes relaxation by attaching to specific receptors in the nervous system, which reduces the excitability of brain cells.

This neurotransmitter functions as the brain’s natural tranquilizer by slowing down nerve impulses.[2] This helps maintain a balanced state within the brain and body. When GABA connects with its receptors, it has a calming effect on both the mind and body.

A balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters is essential for the brain to function properly. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, responsible for calming, while glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter.[3] When these two are in balance, the brain operates smoothly; an imbalance can cause problems.

Signs of GABA Deficiency

Physical Symptoms

When GABA levels are low, physical symptoms can appear. These may include muscle tension, headaches, or digestive issues.[4] These physical problems can disrupt your daily activities and affect your overall sense of well-being.

People with low GABA often report a constant feeling of being on edge.[5] They may find it hard to relax at the end of the day, and they may experience physical restlessness, making it difficult to sit still or feel at ease.

Physical symptoms associated with low GABA include:

  • Muscle tension and stiffness
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome
  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Sweating or cold, clammy hands

Mental and Emotional Symptoms

Low GABA levels can have a major impact on mental and emotional health. This can lead to increased anxiety, changes in mood, and difficulty focusing.[6] These effects can significantly reduce a person’s overall quality of life.

Individuals with low GABA often feel easily overwhelmed by stress and may have trouble handling everyday challenges. Persistent worry and racing thoughts are common experiences for them.

Mental and emotional signs of low GABA include:

  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Mood swings and irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
  • Racing thoughts, especially at night
  • Feeling easily overwhelmed by stress
  • Depression or low mood

Causes of GABA Deficiency

Lifestyle Factors

Daily habits can significantly influence GABA levels. Chronic stress, inadequate sleep, and a lack of regular exercise can deplete GABA.[7] Understanding these factors is key to addressing the underlying causes of deficiency.

Modern lifestyles can contribute to GABA imbalances. Long work hours, constant use of digital devices, and high-stress environments can affect the body. These factors may disrupt the body’s natural ability to produce and use GABA.[8]

Lifestyle factors that can impact GABA production include:

  • Chronic stress and prolonged anxiety
  • Irregular sleep patterns or insomnia
  • Lack of regular physical exercise
  • Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
  • Overuse of digital devices, especially before bed

Dietary Influences

Diet plays a direct role in GABA levels in the body. Certain foods can help GABA production, while others might hinder it. A balanced diet that includes foods that support GABA is important for maintaining healthy levels.

Nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B6, and specific amino acids are vital for GABA creation.[9] Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to lower GABA production. Conversely, consuming foods rich in these nutrients can naturally help increase GABA levels.

Foods that Increase GABA Foods that May Decrease GABA
Fermented foods (kimchi, kefir) High-sugar foods
Green tea Processed foods
Whole grains Artificial sweeteners
Nuts and seeds Excessive caffeine
Leafy greens Alcohol

Genetic Factors

Genetics can affect GABA production and its function. Some people may be genetically predisposed to having lower GABA levels or less effective GABA receptors.[10] Understanding these genetic influences can be useful for creating targeted approaches to managing GABA deficiency.

Genetic variations can affect enzymes involved in GABA creation or the structure of GABA receptors. These differences can make certain people more vulnerable to GABA deficiency or less responsive to its effects.

The Impact of GABA Deficiency on Health

Sleep Disorders

GABA deficiency often leads to sleep problems because this neurotransmitter is crucial for initiating and maintaining sleep.[11] When GABA levels are low, it can be difficult to fall asleep, and overall sleep quality can suffer.

People with low GABA may experience insomnia or restless sleep. They might wake up frequently during the night or not feel rested in the morning. This can create a cycle where poor sleep further reduces GABA levels.

Anxiety and Stress

Low GABA levels are strongly connected to increased anxiety and stress, because GABA acts as a natural anti-anxiety agent in the brain.[12] When GABA levels are not sufficient, the brain becomes more sensitive to things that cause anxiety.

GABA deficiency can amplify the body’s stress response, making it difficult to relax. Even minor stressors can trigger strong anxiety reactions in those with low GABA levels.

Cognitive Function

GABA plays a key role in cognitive processes by helping with focus, supporting memory, and regulating mood.[13] When GABA is deficient, these aspects of cognitive function can be affected.

Low GABA levels can lead to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mood swings. People may have trouble finishing tasks or retaining new information. The ability to ignore distractions and stay focused can also be impaired.

Cognitive Functions Affected by GABA Levels
Attention and focus
Short-term memory
Learning and information processing
Mood regulation
Impulse control

Diagnosing GABA Deficiency

Medical Tests

Diagnosing GABA deficiency can be tricky. Direct measurement of GABA in the brain is not usually feasible, but some medical tests can give insights into GABA function.[14]

Doctors might use brain imaging techniques like magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to estimate GABA levels in specific areas of the brain. Blood tests can check for deficiencies in nutrients needed for GABA production, such as vitamin B6 or magnesium.

Self-Assessment

Recognizing potential signs of GABA deficiency is an important first step. While self-assessment isn’t a replacement for medical advice, it can help identify patterns that suggest low GABA levels.

Pay attention to symptoms like ongoing anxiety, sleep issues, and difficulty relaxing. If these problems are persistent and impact your daily life, it might be beneficial to discuss GABA deficiency with a healthcare professional.

Steps to self-assess GABA deficiency symptoms:

  1. Track sleep patterns and quality
  2. Note frequency and intensity of anxiety or stress reactions
  3. Observe ability to relax and unwind
  4. Monitor cognitive function, including focus and memory
  5. Record physical symptoms like muscle tension or headaches

Natural Ways to Boost GABA

Dietary Strategies

Certain foods can naturally help increase GABA levels in the body. Eating these foods regularly can support healthy GABA production and function.

Fermented foods are particularly helpful for GABA because the fermentation process produces GABA.[15] Foods like kimchi, kefir, and yogurt are great choices. Green tea, whole grains, and nuts also contain compounds that support GABA production.

GABA-boosting foods and their benefits:

  • Fermented foods: Direct source of GABA
  • Green tea: Contains L-theanine, which increases GABA
  • Whole grains: Provide glutamine, a GABA precursor
  • Nuts and seeds: Rich in magnesium, essential for GABA function
  • Leafy greens: High in B vitamins that support GABA synthesis

Lifestyle Modifications

Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly support healthy GABA levels. These changes can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and create an environment that encourages GABA production.

Stress reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help. Regular sleep patterns and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine also support GABA function. Reducing screen time, particularly before bed, can improve sleep quality and GABA levels.

Daily habits to increase GABA production naturally:

  1. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation
  2. Establish a consistent sleep schedule
  3. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
  4. Engage in regular physical activity
  5. Create a relaxing bedtime routine
  6. Reduce screen time, especially before sleep

Exercise and GABA

Physical activity has a powerful effect on GABA levels. Regular exercise can increase GABA production and enhance its effects in the brain, which leads to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better overall well-being.[16]

Different types of exercise can benefit GABA. Aerobic activities like running or cycling can boost GABA production. Yoga and tai chi combine physical movement with mindfulness, which may further enhance GABA’s calming effects.

Types of exercises that boost GABA:

  • Aerobic exercises (running, swimming, cycling)
  • Yoga and tai chi
  • Strength training
  • High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
  • Mindful walking or hiking

Supplements for GABA Support

Direct GABA Supplements

GABA supplements are available without a prescription, and they claim to increase GABA levels directly. These supplements come in different forms, including capsules, powders, and liquids.

The effectiveness of direct GABA supplements is still being studied. While some people report benefits, research on their ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier is mixed.[17] These supplements may work differently for different people.

Precursor Supplements

Instead of taking GABA directly, some people choose supplements that support GABA production in the body. These precursors are substances that the body uses to create GABA.

Common GABA precursor supplements include L-theanine, magnesium, and vitamin B6.[18] These nutrients are important for GABA synthesis and function. They may be more effective than direct GABA supplements for some people.

Supplement Function Potential Benefits
GABA Direct supplementation May reduce anxiety, improve sleep
L-theanine Increases GABA production Promotes relaxation, reduces stress
Magnesium Supports GABA function Improves sleep, reduces anxiety
Vitamin B6 Essential for GABA synthesis Supports overall GABA production

Medications and GABA

Prescription Options

Certain prescription medications work by targeting GABA receptors or influencing GABA levels. These medications are often used for conditions like anxiety disorders, insomnia, or epilepsy.

Benzodiazepines and gabapentin are examples of medications that affect GABA function.[19] While effective, these drugs can have side effects and the potential for dependence. They should be used only under close medical supervision.

Over-the-Counter Alternatives

Some over-the-counter products may influence GABA levels or function. These include certain herbal supplements and natural sleep aids. While usually considered safer than prescription options, their effectiveness can vary.

Examples include valerian root and passionflower extracts. These herbs might have mild GABA-enhancing effects. However, research on their effectiveness is limited compared to prescription medications.

Long-term Management of GABA Levels

Monitoring Progress

Tracking changes in symptoms over time is crucial for managing GABA levels. This helps in knowing which strategies are effective and what might need to be adjusted.

Keep a journal of your symptoms, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider can also help monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Steps to monitor and maintain healthy GABA levels:

  1. Keep a symptom diary
  2. Track sleep patterns and quality
  3. Note changes in anxiety or stress levels
  4. Monitor diet and exercise habits
  5. Regular check-ins with healthcare provider
  6. Adjust strategies based on observed progress

Combining Approaches

An integrated approach often works best for managing GABA deficiency. This might include a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and, if needed, medications.

Creating a personalized plan that addresses individual needs is important, as what works for one person may not be as effective for another. Be open to trying different combinations and making adjustments as needed.

FAQ: People Also Ask

This section answers common questions about GABA deficiency, reflecting typical concerns and curiosities that people have when learning about this topic.

While this information is useful, it’s always best to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.[20] They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs and circumstances.

What is GABA deficiency?
GABA deficiency occurs when the body has insufficient levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system.[21] This can lead to anxiety, sleep problems, and mood issues.

Can GABA deficiency cause depression?
While GABA deficiency is more commonly associated with anxiety, it can contribute to mood disorders, including depression.[22] Low GABA levels may affect overall mood regulation and emotional well-being.

How long does it take to correct GABA deficiency?
The time to correct GABA deficiency varies depending on the individual and the methods used. Some people may notice improvements in a few weeks with lifestyle changes and supplements, while others might take several months.[23]

Are there natural alternatives to GABA supplements?
Yes, natural alternatives include eating GABA-rich foods like fermented products, practicing stress-reduction techniques, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate sleep. These methods can help boost GABA levels naturally.[24]

Can stress deplete GABA levels?
Yes, chronic stress can significantly deplete GABA levels.[25] Stress increases the production of excitatory neurotransmitters, which can overwhelm and reduce the effectiveness of GABA in the brain.

Is GABA deficiency related to other neurotransmitter imbalances?
GABA deficiency can be related to imbalances in other neurotransmitters. The brain’s chemical systems are interconnected, so an issue with GABA might affect or be affected by changes in other neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine.[26]

Fact Check
Claim: GABA, also known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a chemical messenger in the brain that helps to calm nerve activity.
Fact check: True. GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve activity in the brain.

GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It functions by reducing the excitability of neurons, leading to a calming effect.

Source: “Contributions of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria on Food Quality and Human Health: Current Applications and Future Prospects” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11311711/

Claim: This neurotransmitter functions as the brain’s natural tranquilizer by slowing down nerve impulses.
Fact check: True. GABA slows down nerve impulses, acting as a natural tranquilizer.

GABA reduces neuronal firing rates, contributing to its calming and anxiety-reducing effects. This effect is crucial for maintaining a balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain.

Source: “An Updated Review on Pharmaceutical Properties of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6696076/

Claim: GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, responsible for calming, while glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter.
Fact check: True. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, and glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain.

These two neurotransmitters work in tandem to maintain the balance of nerve activity. GABA reduces nerve activity, while glutamate increases it.

Source: “Re‐evaluation of glutamic acid (E 620), sodium glutamate (E 621), potassium glutamate (E 622), calcium glutamate (E 623), ammonium glutamate (E 624) and magnesium glutamate (E 625) as food additives” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7009848/

Claim: When GABA levels are low, physical symptoms can appear. These may include muscle tension, headaches, or digestive issues.
Fact check: Possibly True. Low GABA levels may be associated with some physical symptoms, but the causal relationship needs more research.

While there is evidence that low GABA levels may contribute to issues like muscle tension and some GI distress, it’s not a clear or simple relationship, and other factors may be at play. More research is needed to confirm a direct link.

Source: “Insights and progress on the biosynthesis, metabolism, and physiological functions of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): a review” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11657192/

Claim: People with low GABA often report a constant feeling of being on edge.
Fact check: Potentially True. Low GABA levels are associated with increased anxiety and feeling on edge.

Reduced GABA activity is linked to feelings of anxiety, worry, and being on edge due to the brain’s increased excitability.

Source: “An Updated Review on Pharmaceutical Properties of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6696076/

Claim: Low GABA levels can have a major impact on mental and emotional health. This can lead to increased anxiety, changes in mood, and difficulty focusing.
Fact check: True. Low GABA levels are associated with increased anxiety, mood changes, and difficulty focusing.

GABA deficiency can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially leading to a range of mental and emotional health issues.

Source: “Understanding the mechanism of action and clinical effects of neuroactive steroids and GABAergic compounds in major depressive disorder” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10293235/

Claim: Chronic stress, inadequate sleep, and a lack of regular exercise can deplete GABA.
Fact check: Likely True. Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and inadequate exercise can influence GABA levels.

These factors can negatively impact GABA synthesis and function, creating an environment that depletes GABA. Lifestyle changes that promote stress reduction, good sleep hygiene and exercise are often recommended to help regulate GABA levels.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Long work hours, constant use of digital devices, and high-stress environments can affect the body. These factors may disrupt the body’s natural ability to produce and use GABA.
Fact check: Likely True. Modern lifestyle factors can influence GABA levels.

These modern lifestyle factors can create chronic stress and sleep disruption that negatively impact GABA production and use.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B6, and specific amino acids are vital for GABA creation.
Fact check: True. Magnesium, vitamin B6, and certain amino acids are important for GABA synthesis.

These nutrients are cofactors in the enzymatic processes that convert glutamate into GABA. Deficiencies in these nutrients can negatively affect GABA levels.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Some people may be genetically predisposed to having lower GABA levels or less effective GABA receptors.
Fact check: True. Genetic variations can influence GABA production and function.

Genetic factors can impact the enzymes involved in GABA synthesis, the structure of GABA receptors, and the expression of genes regulating GABA activity. These genetic differences could predispose individuals to lower levels or reduced efficacy.

Source: “Understanding the mechanism of action and clinical effects of neuroactive steroids and GABAergic compounds in major depressive disorder” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10293235/

Claim: GABA deficiency often leads to sleep problems because this neurotransmitter is crucial for initiating and maintaining sleep.
Fact check: True. GABA is important for sleep, and low levels can lead to sleep problems.

GABA’s inhibitory role helps to quiet the brain and promote sleep onset and maintenance. Low GABA levels can disrupt these processes, causing difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep.

Source: “Contributions of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria on Food Quality and Human Health: Current Applications and Future Prospects” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11311711/

Claim: Low GABA levels are strongly connected to increased anxiety and stress, because GABA acts as a natural anti-anxiety agent in the brain.
Fact check: True. Low GABA levels are linked to increased anxiety and stress.

GABA’s role as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter means that reduced levels can lead to excessive excitation in the brain, leading to anxiety and a heightened stress response.

Source: “An Updated Review on Pharmaceutical Properties of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6696076/

Claim: GABA plays a key role in cognitive processes by helping with focus, supporting memory, and regulating mood.
Fact check: True. GABA is involved in cognitive functions like focus, memory, and mood.

GABA has an influence on various aspects of cognitive function by regulating neuronal excitability, including focus, memory, mood regulation, and filtering out irrelevant stimuli.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Direct measurement of GABA in the brain is not usually feasible, but some medical tests can give insights into GABA function.
Fact check: True. Direct measurement of GABA in the brain is difficult, but indirect tests can provide insights.

Measuring GABA levels in living brains is challenging. Clinical settings may use techniques like Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) to estimate levels, or blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies that can impact GABA function.

Source: “Re‐evaluation of glutamic acid (E 620), sodium glutamate (E 621), potassium glutamate (E 622), calcium glutamate (E 623), ammonium glutamate (E 624) and magnesium glutamate (E 625) as food additives” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7009848/

Claim: Fermented foods are particularly helpful for GABA because the fermentation process produces GABA.
Fact check: True. Some fermented foods contain GABA due to microbial action during fermentation.

The fermentation process in foods like kimchi, kefir, and yogurt can produce GABA. However, the extent to which dietary GABA crosses the blood-brain barrier to impact brain function is still under research.

Source: “Oral intake of γ-aminobutyric acid affects mood and activities of central nervous system during stressed condition induced by mental tasks” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22203366/

Claim: Regular exercise can increase GABA production and enhance its effects in the brain, which leads to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better overall well-being.
Fact check: Likely True. Exercise is associated with increased GABA levels and improved mental health.

Some studies show that exercise can increase levels of GABA in the brain and enhance its effects, leading to reduced anxiety, improved mood and overall well-being.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: The effectiveness of direct GABA supplements is still being studied. While some people report benefits, research on their ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier is mixed.
Fact check: True. The ability of GABA supplements to cross the blood-brain barrier is still debated.

There is limited evidence to support the claim that ingested GABA supplements can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, and therefore, many scientists are skeptical about the use of direct GABA supplementation to impact the CNS.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Common GABA precursor supplements include L-theanine, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
Fact check: True. L-theanine, magnesium, and vitamin B6 are considered GABA precursors.

These supplements are thought to support the body’s natural synthesis of GABA and promote its function.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: Benzodiazepines and gabapentin are examples of medications that affect GABA function.
Fact check: True. Benzodiazepines and gabapentin affect GABA function.

Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of GABA at GABA-A receptors. Gabapentin is thought to act on voltage-gated calcium channels, which has an indirect effect on GABA function.

Source: “Understanding the mechanism of action and clinical effects of neuroactive steroids and GABAergic compounds in major depressive disorder” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10293235/

Claim: While this information is useful, it’s always best to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Fact check: True. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

The information provided is for general knowledge and awareness, but medical advice should be sought from a qualified healthcare provider, especially when addressing health conditions.

Claim: GABA deficiency occurs when the body has insufficient levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system.
Fact check: True. GABA deficiency involves insufficient levels of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter.

A deficiency can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters, leading to a variety of symptoms, including anxiety and sleep issues.

Source: “Contributions of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria on Food Quality and Human Health: Current Applications and Future Prospects” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11311711/

Claim: While GABA deficiency is more commonly associated with anxiety, it can contribute to mood disorders, including depression.
Fact check: True. While primarily associated with anxiety, GABA deficiency can contribute to mood disorders like depression.

GABA has an influence on overall mood regulation and emotional well-being. Disruption of GABA pathways is linked to the pathophysiology of mood disorders.

Source: “Understanding the mechanism of action and clinical effects of neuroactive steroids and GABAergic compounds in major depressive disorder” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10293235/

Claim: The time to correct GABA deficiency varies depending on the individual and the methods used. Some people may notice improvements in a few weeks with lifestyle changes and supplements, while others might take several months.
Fact check: True. The timeline to see improvement in GABA related symptoms varies based on individual and methods used.

Individual differences like genetics, stress levels and lifestyle all affect the rate of change. It may take time to see the impact of dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments and supplement use.

Claim: Yes, natural alternatives include eating GABA-rich foods like fermented products, practicing stress-reduction techniques, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate sleep. These methods can help boost GABA levels naturally.
Fact check: True. Lifestyle changes and dietary approaches may support natural GABA levels.

While evidence suggests that practices such as those described can help GABA levels, the extent of improvement and effects may vary and individual response.

Source: “Oral intake of γ-aminobutyric acid affects mood and activities of central nervous system during stressed condition induced by mental tasks” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22203366/

Claim: Yes, chronic stress can significantly deplete GABA levels.
Fact check: True. Chronic stress can deplete GABA levels.

Chronic stress elevates excitatory neurotransmitters, which may overwork and reduce the effectiveness of GABA pathways.

Source: “Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26500584/

Claim: GABA deficiency can be related to imbalances in other neurotransmitters. The brain’s chemical systems are interconnected, so an issue with GABA might affect or be affected by changes in other neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine.
Fact check: True. GABA imbalances may be related to other neurotransmitter imbalances.

Neurotransmitter systems are interconnected, meaning an imbalance in GABA can lead to or result from imbalances in other neurotransmitters, such as serotonin or dopamine.

Source: “Understanding the mechanism of action and clinical effects of neuroactive steroids and GABAergic compounds in major depressive disorder” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10293235/


Medically reviewed and fact checked

Colors Nutrition does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.